Pros: The bulk of the course is very well maintained...primarily because it sits in the middle of campus. This is a great course for players that are just getting into the sport. For those players that don't have a monster arm yet, there are enough holes that can accommodate shorter drives and some holes that can be technically challenging. Interesting obstacles include satellite dishes, buildings (like the library), soy fields, massive steel sculptures, and freshman.

Hole 17 is a gem. As one of longer holes on the course, the basket sits on an island with bushes and freshly-planted trees around the perimeter, all of which is surrounded by a bog.

Cons: This course is only a mile from my house so I play it all the time. This has given me plenty of time to take note of the less worthy aspects. This includes the rubber tee pads that are either falling apart or are seriously warped due to erosion and tree roots.

Course navigation is also a serious issue. The map posted on the DeSales University website is out of date and there are no tee signs or next tee markers. For 75% of the holes you can see where the next tee pad is, but for the rest, it can be a confusing hike until you find it or someone takes pity on you and points you in the right direction.

While there are a few holes that provide some fun interest, most holes are fairly short and don't offer much variety, just huk the disc, approach, and then putt it in.

Briars are a nightmare on holes 8-12. If you lose your disc in the thicket, bring a machete to get it out. In fact, I once came back after a round with a pair of lopers and pruning shears to cut through the dense foliage to free a disc jailed by prickers.

Playing holes 1-6, 13, and 14 while class is in session gets tedious. Granted, the course wouldn't be there had it not been for the college, the student traffic usually means that you either have to wait for ever to throw or you quickly throw a poorly-planned shot.

Some of the DISCatcher baskets are beginning to show signs of wear and some have broken chains.

Other Thoughts: For as many negative things that I have to say about the DeSales course, I do have a ton of fun playing it. It's a nice hike and a quick play. Because it's a relatively easy course, it's great as a confidence booster after taking a beating from some of the other local courses. If you're in the area and have an hour or so to kill, give it a whirl.

Pros: Playing through campus is fun, pretty wide open. I personally like the fact you have to throw through the buildings. It adds a bit of a thrill.

Cons: That being said, holes 8 - 11 are very short by most standards, but it's like closing your eyes and throwing in the middle of the night. I guess if you are playing with about 4 other people, they can go up ahead and check for your throw. It took me as long to play the rest of the course as it did these 4 holes. And on top of that, lost 2 discs.

Other Thoughts: All in all, a fun course. Just don't throw the plastic that you are attached to in the jungle.